Lemondrop was Inspired by my childhood bedtimes stories made up by my Grandmother, “Wawa” and my Mother about the “ranita” (little frog), I wrote and illustrated this book using water colors when I was in high school. To this day, it remains near and dear to my heart. This is a children’s story about finding love and acceptance for yourself no matter what you look like. As a Puerto Rican and Cuban girl, growing up I was shamed for being “brown” and teased for being “skinny.” It was my hope that one day I could read this to my daughter and she would learn to overcome people’s ignorance and love herself just the way that she is. As acceptance of self and others are at a high in America and across the world, this message is still relevant to our youth today and for many days to come.

Blessed with both a technical and creative brain, I earned a Computer Science degree and work as a database administrator but I have a potpourri of artistic outlets and hobbies that include painting, vocal/instruments, biking, writing, meditation, reading, journaling, dancing and cooking to name a few. I tend to get inspired and then have a few uninspiring stale moments, as most do. My brain requires different means of expression to keep it stimulated. Basically, I get bored of routine easily so a multitude of projects usually is in process at home. And I’m a huge romantic. My best and favorite “hobby” is being in love. Sharing my love, affection, nurturing and loyalty is what I do best. XO

For all to look within themselves to find their own true self and nourish that with unconditional love instead of looking to the outside for approval. Shed the labels and restrictions that society, parents, institutions, religions has placed on your true being and be yourself. As the great Timothy Leary said, “Think for yourself, question authority.” The peace is within you. My goal is to educate people at a young and impressionable age so a more authentically fulfilled life can be lived.

Many battles and many scars throughout my life but none that should be watered and brought into the present moment. We would be better off if we didn’t take the power from the present moment with the illusion of the past or future. People tend to live in fear of the future and in pain of the past. We are all one but have own our separate walks with stumbles and that’s all we are here to do…. experience it all with loving awareness. People have labeled it with negative or positive but it’s all just experience in a blink of an eye. Take it with no judgment or allowing anyone or anything to waiver your peace. Be kind to all things… ALL things.